The town of Potsdam is reeling from a fatal crash on Tuesday evening that claimed the lives of two cherished residents of Massena, New York. The collision, which occurred around 8 p.m. at the intersection of State Highway 310 and County Route 34, is under investigation by the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Connor Graveline of Ogdensburg, was traveling east on County Route 34 when it failed to stop at a stop sign, colliding with a 2022 GMC Acadia. The Acadia, driven by Real “Frenchie” Coupal of Massena, was struck with devastating force. Coupal and his passenger, Loretta B. Perez, both died at the scene.
Coupal was a prominent local businessman who operated Frenchie’s Ford and Frenchie’s Chevrolet dealerships in Massena, while Perez was a beloved retired educator who served the Massena School District for decades. Their loss has sent shockwaves through the community, where they were regarded as pillars of generosity and commitment.
Massena Mayor Greg Paquin expressed the profound sorrow felt by the town, describing Coupal and Perez as selfless individuals who worked tirelessly to uplift their community. “They were deeply involved in so many local initiatives and will be deeply missed,” Paquin said.
The crash has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance in Massena. Community members recall Coupal’s dedication to local business and Perez’s unwavering passion for education. The pair were reportedly returning from a meeting when the tragic accident occurred.
The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office is working with multiple agencies to investigate the crash. Deputies are examining factors such as road conditions, driver error, and visibility to determine the cause. Local fire departments, rescue teams, and the New York State Police provided assistance at the scene, ensuring a coordinated response to the tragedy.
As Massena mourns the loss of two of its most beloved residents, their contributions to the community will not be forgotten. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of caution on the roads, particularly at intersections. The investigation continues as authorities aim to provide answers and justice for the grieving families.